Tree-mendously Big: The Shrine Drive-Thru
🚗🌳 Tucked within Northern California’s Avenue of the Giants, the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree offers the chance to literally drive your car through a living redwood estimated to be over 2,000 years old. This quirky, family-friendly attraction captures the scale and wonder of the coast redwoods while celebrating the nostalgic spirit of early road-tripping. It’s equal parts awe-inspiring and delightfully kitsch — and perfect for travelers looking for a fun photo and an unforgettable forest moment.
🎯 Why you should visit
To feel dwarfed by a tree that predates the Roman Empire — and to capture a uniquely American travel memory in the heart of a redwood forest.
📚 Things you will learn
That nature’s scale can be both humbling and playful. You'll learn about the resilience of redwoods, the history of California’s early tourism era, and how roadside attractions have long helped connect people to the wild — in creative (and car-sized) ways.
Shrine Drive Thru Tree, Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, CA, USA
aire volador advice
📏 Check Your Vehicle Size – Most standard cars and small SUVs fit just fine, but larger trucks or vans may not squeeze through. Check before you commit!
🎥 Use a Dashcam or GoPro – Recording your drive-through gives you a fun video memory to share (and way cooler than a selfie).
👟 Get Out and Walk Around Too – Don’t just drive through! Park afterward and stroll around—the tree’s natural burns, textures, and nearby grove are worth admiring up close.
📸 Plan a Car-Free Shot – After your drive, walk back and take a photo of the tree alone—no car inside—to capture its size and timeless beauty without modern distractions.
🌳 Respect the Tree – It's still living! Avoid touching the interior or outer bark more than necessary—minimal contact helps preserve it for future travelers.
🎟️ Cash is Handy – Some drive-thru trees charge a small fee at the entrance (usually a few dollars). Having small cash bills makes entry quicker and easier.
when to visit
🌸 Spring (March–May) – Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and a fresh, vibrant forest atmosphere make spring ideal.
🍂 Fall (September–November) – Golden light filters through the trees and the surrounding Avenue of the Giants is at its most peaceful.
⏰ Early Morning or Late Afternoon – Arrive outside mid-day hours to avoid waiting in line for your turn to drive through and get the best, soft natural light for photos.
🚨 Pro Tip: Summer weekends can bring longer lines. If visiting in summer, go early (before 10 AM) or near closing to avoid the rush.
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